FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
From Ashes to Impact: Boys & Girls Club to Premiere Historic Documentary
“The Rise of the Phoenix: From Ashes to Impact” tells a story of resilience, community, and a commitment to generations of youth
SHELTON, CT — [September 9, 2026] — What happens when a community refuses to let adversity define its future?
The Boys & Girls Club of the Lower Naugatuck Valley will answer that question with the premiere of its new documentary, “The Rise of the Phoenix: From Ashes to Impact,” on Thursday, October 22, 2026, at the Lavietes Clubhouse in Shelton.
The film captures a pivotal chapter in the Club’s history and the extraordinary response that followed the 1991 Boys & Girls Club fire. Through firsthand accounts from alumni, Board members, staff, community leaders, and others connected to the Club, the documentary tells a story of resilience, leadership, and a community united by its belief in the importance of the Club and the young people it serves.
More than a story about a building, the film explores the people and purpose behind the Club — and how a shared commitment to youth helped transform a moment of tremendous uncertainty into a lasting legacy of impact.
Honoring Those Who Helped Us Rise
Before the film screening, the Boys & Girls Club will hold a special awards presentation honoring several individuals and organizations whose leadership, service, and dedication were instrumental in helping the Club rebuild and move forward following the 1991 fire.
The Club will recognize:
John “Jack” Ribas, Executive Director of the Boys & Girls Club at the time of the fire;
Chic Tortora, Shelton Fire Marshall and Shelton Fire Echo Hose Hook & Ladder Co. 1, for its service and response to the fire; and
Mayor Mark Lauretti, who led the Town of Shelton in his first year in office following the fire.
Each honoree will receive a “The Rise of the Phoenix: From Ashes to Impact” Award, recognizing their role during a pivotal moment in the Club’s history and their unwavering commitment to the community’s youth.
The evening will serve as an opportunity to remember those who helped the Club rise from the ashes and celebrate the lasting impact of the decisions, leadership, and community spirit that followed.
Event Details
Thursday, October 22, 2026
Lavietes Clubhouse | Shelton, CT
5:00 PM — Doors Open & Appetizers
5:30 PM — Program & Film Screening
Admission is free, and the event is open to the community. Seating is limited, and advance registration is necessary to attend.
The evening will also include special recognition of individuals whose leadership, dedication, and commitment helped shape the Club’s future following the 1991 fire.
“This is a story about what can happen when a community believes deeply in its young people,” said Shaye Roscoe, CEO of the Boys & Girls Club of the Lower Naugatuck Valley. “The documentary honors those who helped us move forward during an incredibly difficult time and celebrates the impact that continues today.”
As the Boys & Girls Club enters its 70th year of service, The Rise of the Phoenix serves as both a reflection on the past and a reminder of why the Club continues to matter, providing young people with a safe place to belong, caring mentors, meaningful opportunities, and the foundation to build Great Futures.
For reservations or additional information, click here.
Watch the documentuary trailer here.
About Boys & Girls Club of the Lower Naugatuck Valley
For 70 years, the Boys & Girls Club of the Lower Naugatuck Valley has provided young people with a safe, supportive place to learn, grow, build healthy relationships, and reach their full potential. Through programs, mentorship, and opportunities, the Club continues to create Great Futures for generations of youth throughout the Lower Naugatuck Valley.